Nissan focuses on versatility; Infiniti’s new Q50 to debut

By National Post

Originally published: February 11, 2013

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2014 Nissan Versa Note

At the Canadian International Auto Show, Nissan Canada will present for the first time in Canada the all-new 2014 Nissan Versa Note. The Versa Note shakes up the subcompact category by satisfying both emotional and rational needs with features that are truly unexpected in its class — such as sleek styling and advanced technologies, Nissan says.

Among the all-new Versa Note hatchback’s unexpected features is the first-in-segment availability of Nissan’s advanced innovative Around View Monitor, which provides a virtual 360-degree view of objects around the vehicle, helping the driver maneuver the car into tight spots. Class-leading cargo space, an adjustable rear load floor and exceptional fuel economy are all offered with a starting MSRP of only $13,348. The 2014 Nissan Versa Note goes on sale at Nissan dealers in Canada in June 2013.

The all-new Versa Note will complement the Versa family, which includes the popular Versa Sedan. The Versa Note has its own distinctive look, feel and added hatchback utility. It carries the Note designation used in other global Nissan markets, as well as the Pure Drive badge, designating it as having low CO2 emissions and exceptional fuel efficiency.

The all-new Versa Note is offered in a range of well-equipped grade levels: S, SV and the top-of-the-line SL model. Each is equipped with an advanced 1.6-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine with dual fuel injection and Twin CVTC (Continuously Variable Timing Control).

Nissan Resonance Concept

With its boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel-efficient hybrid-electric powertrain, the Nissan Resonance concept proposes an all-new dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category, Nissan says. The global concept will make its Canadian debut at the 2013 Canadian International Auto Show.

Light on its feet, the exterior design signals that the Nissan Resonance concept is pushing the crossover segment forward.

The energetic surfaces show a counterpoint of dynamic fluidity and pure edginess. Nissan’s designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective, and drew inspiration from the futuristic allure of hypersonic travel.

The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the hood and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The body is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines and is accented by the flow through the car to the kick-up shape around D-Pillar. These distinct details give the crossover a very advanced yet spacious impression.

Though Resonance is presented strictly as a design concept, its efficient hybrid electric drivetrain signals the desire by crossover drivers to be respectful of the environment without sacrificing driving pleasure. The all-wheel-drive Resonance Concept includes Nissan’s proprietary “one-motor, two-clutch” system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system. The Resonance also features Nissan’s next-generation Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Nissan Juke Nismo

At this year’s auto show, Nissan will also display the Juke Nismo for the first time in Canada. The Juke Nismo was engineered and developed with the passion and experience that has made Nismo one of the world’s premiere motorsports organizations and factory-tuning divisions, Nissan says. The Juke Nismo will be powered by a 1.6-litre direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It has been carefully tuned to provide a driving experience only Nismo could create, complementing the vehicle’s classy-yet-sporty appearance and overall unique nature. The Juke Nismo was engineered and developed with the passion and experience that has made Nismo one of the world’s premiere motorsports organizations and factory-tuning divisions.

Thanks to unparalleled expertise in aerodynamic technology, honed through Nismo’s participation in the Super GT Series (the highest form of GT racing in Japan), the Juke Nismo features a 37% increase in downforce compared to the stock model, dramatically improving the vehicle’s overall stability.

The front bumper has been reshaped, with both ends made wider to redirect air around the front tires resulting in less drag. Also, the center part of the spoiler has been redesigned to increase downforce.

The Nissan Juke Nismo will be available in Canada in limited quantities.

2014 Infiniti Q50

Infiniti Canada’s booth will feature the Canadian debut of the all-new Q50 luxury sport sedan. Having recently implemented a new nomenclature philosophy, the all-new Q50 (replacing the G Sedan) sets the performance and technology direction for a new generation of Infiniti vehicles.

Taking many of its seductive styling cues from the Infiniti Essence concept, the Q50’s tight, athletic appearance blends low, wide proportions with excellent interior roominess to a class marked by unexciting design, Infiniti says. Infiniti’s sports sedan performance leadership continues with the new Q50, which is available with a choice of a refined 328-horsepower 3.7-litre V6 or new Q50 Hybrid featuring Infiniti’s Direct Response Hybrid System with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control.

Two new world’s first production performance technologies make their debuts in the Q50: Infiniti Direct Adaptive Steering technology and Active Lane Control. The new steering system allows advanced control of the Q50’s tire angle and steering inputs, transmitting the driver’s intentions to the wheels faster than a mechanical system. Four different steering settings are offered, allowing customization by driver preference or road conditions. The Active Lane Control uses a camera-based lane marker detection system to further enhance on-center driving capability.

Building on Infiniti’s unique approach to making owners’ lives easier, which includes the Infiniti Personal Assistant program with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants, the new Infiniti InTouch telematics system brings the future of in-car connectivity to the Q50 interior today. Unlike conventional interfaces, the Q50 has two touchscreens with intuitive hand gesture screen operation to easily connect drivers to their lives outside the car.

The all-new 2014 Infiniti Q50 will be initially offered in Canada beginning in summer 2013.